BANJO DAN, KICK MOLLY THROUGH THE WALL

BANJO DAN
KICK MOLLY THROUGH THE WALL

Vermont Songbag
VSB 109

This is a fun romp through an interesting program of original songs by Banjo Dan Lindner. It features lots of folks including his current lineup of the Mid-Nite Plowboys. The songs tend to be diverse in style and focus, exploring varying themes such as career choices, global warming, a jail song, a gospel number and a “what if?” story about Molly and Tenbrook, the race horse immortalized in song.

The picking is interesting and solid; the vocals are more akin to modern folk than bluegrass. The whole project has an infectious quality that grows on you with repeated listening. While not breaking any new ground, this recording demonstrates Lindner’s songwriting and picking abilities quite well. The cast of support players is all quite good and they cover a wide range of musical styles, with a touch of swing and other styles mixed throughout while keeping it primarily bluegrass. Bob Amos, formerly of Front Range, lends his vocals and guitar to a couple of songs in the proceedings. Lindner plays some 12-string guitar and tiple besides presiding on a very well-played banjo.

This interesting set is unique and should find favor with those who like their bluegrass with a folk edge. (Dan Lindner, 242 Main St., Montpelier, VT 05602, www.banjodan.com.)RCB